<p>My mom is 90. I second the photo idea. I bet she would love a framed photo of you and your best friend. My mother is always bemoaning the fact that no one prints pictures anymore—they are all on the computer. </p>
<p>I also agree that consumables are better than knick-knacks. My mom has received Harry and David fruit baskets, Omaha steaks, etc. Food delivered right to the home is always welcome. Perfume is a little iffy unless you know her brand. If my mother is any proof, a 90 year old woman is quite set in her ways, especially where lotions and scents are concerned! :)</p>
<p>I realize that you are living in a different state from your friend’s mother, so this doesn’t really apply to you, but for anyone else interested: I can tell you from experience that a gift certificate to get her nails done, go to the movies, or eat at restaurant would be great – but only if part of the gift is that you take her. My mother no longer drives. She uses a walker, is unsteady on her feet and has trouble with stairs. Her vision and hearing are not perfect. That makes it impossible for her to go anywhere unaccompanied, so if she gets a gift certificate, it means a family member–usually the one who is already overwhelmed with routine caretaking–must be the escort. And actually, it would be nicer for her to go out with someone that she doesn’t usually get a chance to visit with.</p>